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1
: a bodily disorder or chronic disease
a stomach ailment
2
: unrest, uneasiness
an emotional ailment
Synonyms
Examples of ailment in a Sentence
She suffered from a chronic back ailment.
The doctor treated him for a variety of ailments.
Recent Examples on the Web
In several cases, chimps with ailments went out of their way to look for these plants.
—Carlyn Kranking, Smithsonian Magazine, 31 Dec. 2024
As reported by Newsweek and The Associated Press (AP), the agency has faced criticism from those who have reported cases and from advocates who accuse the government of long dismissing the array of ailments.
—David Faris, Newsweek, 28 Dec. 2024
Bone broth was traditionally seen as a remedy for a variety of ailments, such as digestive issues, joint pain and even as a cure for colds or flu, thanks to its rich nutrient content and ability to soothe the body.
—Sandra Rose Salathe, Flow Space, 26 Dec. 2024
Shyam Benegal, a pivotal figure in Indian cinema known for his incisive and socially conscious storytelling, died on Monday in Mumbai following a chronic kidney ailment, his daughter confirmed to India Today.
—Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 23 Dec. 2024
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Word History
Etymology
First Known Use
1606, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Dictionary Entries Near ailment
Cite this Entry
“Ailment.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ailment. Accessed 15 Jan. 2025.
Medical Definition
ailment
noun
ail·ment
ˈā(ə)l-mənt
: a bodily disorder or chronic disease
More from Merriam-Webster on ailment
Nglish: Translation of ailment for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of ailment for Arabic Speakers
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